🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

C15

Year:

1987

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Light commercial vehicle (LCV), panel van, passenger car variants

Target Audience:

Owners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians, restoration enthusiasts

Competitors:

Ford Transit, Fiat Ducato, Renault Trafic, Peugeot Partner (in spirit, though C15 predates some)

Manual Advantage:

Vehicle-specific, factory-issued detail, comprehensive A-Z coverage, digital format benefits (searchable, printable, scalable images)

Value Proposition:

Empowers users with the exact information dealerships use, enabling efficient maintenance, diagnosis, and repair, saving time and money.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service, Repair, Diagnosis, Maintenance, Electrical Schematics, Wiring Diagrams

Model Variants Covered:

All models, all trims

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typical for comprehensive factory manuals covering A-Z repairs)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Searchability:

PDF format allows for keyword searching, enabling users to quickly locate specific information or procedures.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emission Control System, Intake & Exhaust Systems, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (if applicable to 1987 models)

Chassis:

Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System (incl. Power Steering), Brake System (incl. Parking Brake), Wheels & Tires, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axles

Electrical:

Basic Electrical, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrument Panel, Wipers & Washers, Horn, Door Locks, Meter Audio/Visual, Multiplex/CAN Communication (if applicable to 1987), Engine Control System

Body & Interior:

Exterior & Interior Components, Engine Hood/Doors, Seats, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Cruise Control, Engine Immobilizer (if applicable)

Engine Management:

Detailed coverage of engine control units (ECUs), sensor inputs, and actuator outputs for both petrol and diesel variants, enabling precise diagnosis of performance issues.

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections, Lubrication

Repair:

Component Removal & Installation, Major Overhauls, Component Reassembly, Troubleshooting Guides

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Faults, Diagnostic Procedures, Circuit Analysis, Symptom-Based Diagnostics

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive wiring schematics for all major electrical systems, including engine management, lighting, and interior controls, crucial for diagnosis and repair.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon vehicle problems.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows Vista (32/64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, Mac OS

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free)

Printability:

Yes, all pages are printable

Image Scaling:

Yes, images can be blown up and enlarged for printing

Resolution:

High-resolution digital scans, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text upon printing or enlargement.

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely XUD series diesel (e.g., XUD7, XUD7TE) and potentially smaller petrol engines (e.g., TU series variants) common in the era. Specific engine details would be within the manual.

Engine Layout:

Front-wheel drive, transverse or longitudinal (depending on engine and chassis configuration).

Horsepower Range:

Typically 50-70 HP for diesel variants, lower for petrol. Specific figures vary by engine.

Torque Range:

Torque figures are robust for diesel engines, optimized for utility. Specific figures depend on engine variant.

Fuel Delivery:

Diesel: Indirect injection, mechanical injection pump. Petrol: Carburetor or early fuel injection systems. Manual will detail specifics.

Fuel Type:

Diesel, Unleaded Petrol

Typical Codes:

XUD7, XUD7TE (diesel); TU1, TU3 (petrol). Manual will list specific codes for 1987 models.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Manual transmission (4-speed or 5-speed) was standard.

Transmission Type:

Automatic transmission may have been an option on some variants, though less common for the C15. Manual will specify availability.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch.

Fluid Type:

Manual transmission fluid (MTF) or gear oil. Specific type and viscosity will be detailed in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Panel Van, Combi Van (passenger variants), Pickup variants.

Wheelbase:

Varies by configuration but generally around 2650mm for standard models.

Length:

Varies by configuration, typically around 4.2-4.5 meters.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1000-1200 kg, depending on body style and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1800-2000 kg, allowing for payload.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

Pre-modern crash safety standards. Focus on passive safety features of the time.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assistance likely standard on most models.

Steering:

Rack and pinion steering. Power steering an option on higher trims or later models.

Seat Belts:

Lap or three-point seat belts for front occupants. Rear belts for Combi versions.

Construction:

Monocoque chassis construction with reinforced body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player. Often aftermarket installations.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard or widely available on 1987 models. Manual will detail if fitted.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag was not standard in 1987. Manual will detail if fitted on specific models.

Connectivity Features:

No advanced connectivity features typical of modern vehicles. Focus is on mechanical and basic electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 km or annually for diesel engines. Petrol engines may vary. Manual specifies exact intervals and conditions.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for XUD diesel engines; interval typically around 60,000 - 80,000 km. Manual provides the precise interval and procedure.

Engine Oil:

Specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-40 or 15W-40) and API/ACEA specifications for diesel and petrol engines will be detailed. Capacity approx. 4-5 liters.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant. Capacity approx. 5-7 liters. Manual specifies type and mix ratio.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual specifies type and change interval.

Transmission Fluid:

Specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil for manual transmissions, depending on the gearbox design. Capacity will be provided.

Common Problems:

Rust on bodywork (especially wheel arches, sills, tailgate), aging suspension components (bushings, ball joints), occasional diesel injection pump issues, glow plug system reliability.

Repair Tips:

The manual is essential for addressing these issues correctly, particularly rust repairs and suspension component replacement due to its robust construction.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Philosophy:

Citroën is known for its innovative and often unconventional engineering, with a focus on ride comfort and aerodynamic design.

C15 Lineage:

The C15 is based on the Peugeot 205 platform, sharing many components. It was developed as a versatile light commercial vehicle and people carrier.

Production Years:

1984 - 2005 (long production run)

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily France.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Perception:

The C15 is highly regarded for its durability, practicality, and low running costs, especially in its diesel forms. It's a workhorse that has earned a strong reputation for reliability in its intended applications.

Longevity:

Many C15s remain on the road today, testament to their robust engineering and the availability of detailed repair information like this manual.